Richard C. Steffenhagen

Richard Charles Steffenhagen, 85, of Red Wing, died Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010, at the Fairview Red Wing Seminary Home. He was born July 6, 1925 in Red Wing, to Charles and Marie (Hauschildt) Steffenhagen. He attended School District 161 in Flower Valley. He worked on several farms until he started farming on Hill Avenue with his brother, Glenn. In 1953 he was drafted into the US Army and was honorably discharged in 1955. In 1956, he and his brothers, Dale and Glenn, moved to Flower Valley to farm in partnership. He and Dale retired from farming in 1996 and continued to live on the Flower Valley farm. Richard very much enjoyed farming, and had been recognized for outstanding dairy production in 1966 from the Rochester Dairy Cooperative. Throughout Richard's life, he enjoyed traveling, having visited every continent except Antarctica, and traveling throughout the US and Canada. He also enjoyed bowling, going to family gatherings and playing the harmonica and organ. He was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Frontenac and had been involved with the Fellowship Club, choir, and the church council. He also belonged to the National Farmer's Organization where he held various offices, and he was a member of the Leo C. Peterson American Legion, Post 54.

He is survived by four siblings, Berdella Cooper of Roseville, Minnesota, Lois Steffenhagen of Wausau, Wisconsin, Judith (James) Moore of Lompoc, California and Kermith (Judith) Steffenhagen of Stillwater, Minnesota and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Dale and Glenn Steffenhagen and a brother-in-law, Robert Cooper. The family wishes to express their thanks to Richard's neighbors, friends and Home Instead Senior Care Staff for all of their assistance in helping Richard remain on his farm.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, November 27, 2010 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Frontenac, with Reverend Christopher Hoppe officiating. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, at Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel and for one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials preferred to the church or donor's choice.